Over the course of my life, I’ve noticed something uncomfortable: the times I felt the most justified in my actions were usually the times I acted the least like Jehovah God. Back in the Navy, I used to debate the Bible with Petty Officer Buchanan in front of everyone. At the time, I felt certain — rock‑solid certain — that I was right. Today, I hang my head at some of the things I said. That certainty wasn’t faith; it was pride dressed up as conviction. Maybe that’s why I look at the world today with a mixture of uncertainty and skepticism. Everyone seems so sure of themselves — in politics, in the Church, everywhere. We surround ourselves with people who think just like we do, and if a congregation doesn’t line up with our preferences, we leave for one that does. But the Church has never been a single, polished group that dresses alike and finishes each other’s sentences. The Church is eclectic because Jesus scattered His people across thousands of congregations and denominations. Some you’ll agree with, some you won’t — and that’s by design. If you never look past your own congregational or denominational walls, you’ll start believing you’re justified before God by something other than the blood of Jesus Christ. And that’s a lie. And if the God you worship agrees with everything you already think and do, then you’re no longer worshiping Jehovah God — you’re worshiping an idol shaped suspiciously like yourself. I still remember sitting in a history class in Houston, Texas, going over the recurring themes of American history. I’ve forgotten two of them, but I’ll never forget the third: revivalism. Every so often, the American people were called back to the Christian faith. I’ve always believed we need that now — a renewed interest in Jesus. We’ve become too compartmentalized, too specialized, too alone. Not because we found something better, but because people everywhere are searching and no longer believe their parents’ religion is enough. Honestly, that’s not a bad thing. Jesus can stand up to any head‑to‑head comparison. Are you looking for peace in the middle of turmoil? Jesus has it — real peace, not talking points. You want joy? Jesus has that too. He wins out over every spiritual discipline, every self‑help method, every “new thing” we chase. God reveals Himself to those who seek Him earnestly. That sounds vague until you actually try it. What it means is simple: spend time in Scripture, put what you read into practice, and then reflect — in a journal, in prayer, or in a small group. Pay attention to what happens inside you. That’s where God does His revealing. And about the fruit of the Spirit — remember that fruit is seasonal. It takes time. But there are things you can do to help it grow. Pursue the fruit you desire. Take notes on why it seems to slip through your fingers. Practice it, pray over it, and keep practicing until it becomes part of you. God will give you the fruit you seek.

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